A reappraisal of the platysma myocutaneous island flap

The functional results of primary reconstruction of the floor of the mouth after ablative surgery for oral cancer using a platysma myocutaneous island flap are reviewed. Seventeen patients who had simultaneous neck dissection, tumor resection, and reconstruction were evaluated. It appears from this study that primary reconstruction of the floor of the mouth with a platysma flap is not ideal. This is believed to be due partly to the high occurrence of direct, postoperative complications.